(Photo source: TESDA NCR)

As the school year winds down and the summer vacation break approaches, students may find themselves with an abundance of free time. 

Scheduled to run from June 1 to July 28, 2024, according to the Department of Education (DepEd), the summer break presents the perfect chance to dive into a world of free, accessible learning.

While some may opt for the beach or summer camps, a remarkable opportunity awaits those seeking personal growth and development – the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority's (TESDA) online courses.

Through its TESDA Online Program (TOP), students can explore a vast array of courses, all available at their fingertips.

TOP is a web-based platform that offers free Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) for the technical education and skills development of Filipinos.

Through the use of information and communication technologies, TOP provides an effective and efficient way to deliver technical-vocational education and training at the learner’s own space and time.

TOP is also available for blended learning through the Multi-Regional TESDA Online Program (MRTOP) offered by TESDA Technology Institutions (TTIs).

With more than 150 free online courses to choose from, the TOP program offers something for every student's interest. Whether you aspire to learn digital literacy, enhance your IT skills, or explore the culinary arts, the diverse curriculum has the potential to ignite your passions and unlock your full potential.

The best part? These courses are open to the public, and the only requirement for some is an "enrollment key" provided by authorized school personnel. This means that students can embark on their learning journey without the burden of additional fees, making it an accessible opportunity for all.

Here are some courses available for students: 

Introduction to Agro-Entrepreneurship

If you wish to pursue urban gardening, be a certified ‘plantita’ and make it a business, you may want to consider this course. It will also teach you how to handle your finances in the field. 

Establishing and Operating a Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) 

Students who aspire to be a cafe owner, or the CEO, this is the course for you. This eLearning course will discuss the fundamentals and practical approaches to entrepreneurship in building your dream small business. After all, big things start with small beginnings. 

Foundations of Massage Practice 

In the future if you see yourself as a massage therapist, or a massage business owner, you may want to consider this course. Through this course, you will get an introduction to different types of massages like swedish, shiatsu and thai massage.

Introduction to Front Office Services 

Manifesting to be the face of a company, and enjoy welcoming guests, Introduction to Front Office Services might just be the right course for you. You will gain an advantage to your job seeking right before you graduate.

Introduction to Visual Graphic Design 

Dreaming of designing logos and graphics, get an upskill and an advantage in your resume through this online course. 

Beauty Care Services (Nail Care) NC II

Oh what joy a freshly designed nails bring! If you wish to master the art of designing your nails, or nails of other people, try this online course. Upon finishing the course, you will also gain a National Certificate (NC) that will allow you to be employed as a competent nail technician. 

Cookery NC II 

This course will give you the knowledge you need of becoming a kitchen staff or cook in a restaurant. You may never know, it might spark your interest in opening up your own food business in the future.

Preparing Cakes 

This online course gives you skills in creating cakes and pastries. It will help you pursue your dreams in baking your own cake, or own your cute bakery. This self-paced course will also get you a certificate. 

Full list of online courses may be accessed here: https://e-tesda.gov.ph/course/

How to enroll in TOP? 

1. Create a TOP account. To create an account, open: https://e-tesda.gov.ph/, click the ‘Login’ button, then click ‘New Account’ button. 
2. Fill out all necessary fields. After which, click ‘Create my new account.’ 
3. After creating the account, an activation link will be sent to your email address. Click the link and your account will automatically be activated. 
4. Go back to the ‘Login’ page and input your credentials. Once you're done creating an account, you can  now choose a course you wish to enroll in. 
5. List of available online courses are found in the top left taskbar. Click ‘course’ to view the full list. 
6. If you want a more convenient access to your courses, the TESDA mobile application can be accessed and downloaded using the Google Play Store for android users, and App Store for Apple users.

For clarifications and queries, you may contact TESDA through their email at tesdaonlineprogram@tesda.gov.ph, or via telephone at (+632) 8893-8297. You may also visit the TESDA office near you, find it here: https://www.tesda.gov.ph/directory/regions.

Follow TESDA NCR Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/tesdancr1 for more updates. 

So, as you near the end of the school calendar and preparing to embrace your best school break yet, consider investing in your personal growth and development through the TESDA Online Program. Unlock a world of possibilities, and let your summer break be a transformative experience that sets you up for success in the years to come. (JVD/PIA-NCR)